Yoga can be an effective relaxation and fitness technique; it’s a fantastic habit to get into. But have you heard people say it’s ideal for “treating” varicose veins? We’ve heard that too.
Varicose veins occur when there is a failure of the one-way valves inside your veins. Instead of pumping blood in one direction toward the heart, the failing valves mean blood can leak backwards, allowing a pooling of blood which is the cause of the bulging veins. Varicose veins can also cause other symptoms like swelling, aching, and itching, and more serious complications such as blood clots and venous ulceration.
It’s important to note that chief among the reasons varicose veins develop are hereditary factors. If they’re in the family, it’s highly likely you will develop problem veins too. Another risk factor is working in a profession that causes you to be on your feet all day, particularly standing without moving about much.
So, can yoga treat varicose veins?
With those causes and symptoms in mind, you might have already guessed the answer…
Yoga will not treat or repair your varicose veins. Without medical intervention, your veins will not right themselves and will likely only worsen.
Can yoga do anything beneficial for varicose veins?
Yes. Stretching and exercise can help to relieve swelling and soreness in the legs from varicose veins. It’s wonderful to maintain fitness and flexibility. Yoga may assist with management of your varicose veins, but don’t expect it to prevent or remove the problem.
Treatments for Varicose Veins
Without medical treatment, your varicose veins will get worse. However, it’s not all bad news. There are a range of treatments which can be carried out by a doctor who specialises in veins (Phlebologist) and it doesn’t involve painful and invasive “vein stripping” surgery.
Here’s a quick overview of these treatments. Endovenous Laser Ablation involves a small nick in the vein, the doctor then applies a laser to the interior vein wall, the wall collapses, and the vein is absorbed into the body as it heals. The very latest treatment technology is VenaSeal. After a nick to the skin the vein is glued shut with a specially designed glue. The vein will harden and then dissolve into the body. Endovenous Laser Ablation and VenaSeal are both walk in/walk out procedures.
Now you know
- Varicose veins are hereditary or can be caused by excessive standing
- Yoga can’t treat, repair or remove varicose veins
- Yoga can help to relieve pain and swelling caused by varicose veins
- Modern medical treatments for varicose veins are effective and non-invasive; read more about Endovenous Laser Ablation and VenaSeal
